And Mr Menzies said the £18m investment showed Blackpool Transport believed in providing a better experience for its customers, who make more than 20m journeys on local buses and trams each year.

He added: “The Fylde coast is famous for its public transport system and I am delighted the buses will now reflect the high quality rolling stock on the Blackpool tramway.

“As someone who sits on the Transport Select Committee in Parliament I am well aware of the positive affects investment on infrastructure and public transport can have on confidence in an area, as well as on its self-belief.”